Go with a 30-06 for deer and close range big game. The .06 will take down everything from deer to bear to elk and even moose. Although, the shots should be limited to 200 - 300 yards. I wouldn't try for a moose more than 100 yards. If you want to go after deer, and you don't have to or want to shoot a long ways, the 30-30 is the perfect gun. It's inexpensive to shoot, no recoil, and can kill a deer easily up to 150 yards.